New Zealand North Island: Haka & Hot Springs

Kia ora! Welcome to Auckland: home to over 50 volcanos, this city definitely brings the heat. First up: meet the fellow explorers you'll be sharing the adventure with.

Then we'll dig into our first group dinner. Ready to delve deep into the North Island's mind-blowing landscapes and richer-than-rich culture? See you bright and early! Stay: Haka House Auckland City or similar (D)

Wave goodbye to Auckland – we're heading for the jaw-dropping Bay of Islands. Fancy swinging by a natural wonder en route? You're in luck: the thundering Whangārei Falls awaits. Plunging into the Hātea River from a height of 26 metres, the waterfall's surrounded by giant kauri trees – sacred to the Māori people as protectors of the forest.

Later, we'll make tracks to the Waitangi Treaty Grounds: arguably New Zealand's most important historic monument.

When we arrive in Paihia, there's an orientation with your Trip Leader.

Then, the evening's yours: we think you should hunt down some seafood chowder or fish and chips along the harbour *chef's kiss*. Stay: Haka House Bay of Islands or similar (B)

Today's all about options. Jump on a cruise around the ‘Hole in the Rock' – no prizes for guessing what this is – to spot the area's celebrity dolphins. Or stick to solid ground with a tour of Cape Reinga (the tip of the island) and Ninety Mile Beach (which is actually 55 miles long).

There's also a sundown cruise if you can't get enough of those island views. All the adventuring got your stomach rumbling? Head to a waterfront bar for craft beer and burgers. Stay: Haka House Bay of Islands or similar (B)

Wave goodbye to the Bay of Islands and head down to Waiomio. This is a big drive day, so stock up on snacks (and don't lose your ear pods under your seat).

We'll make a stop at the magical Kawiti Caves—tucked away off the beaten track—for a 45-minute glowworm tour. Think twinkling glowworms, incredible limestone formations, and a dose of Māori history all rolled into one unforgettable underground adventure!

Later, you're heading to Rotorua where you'll get your bearings on a walk around town with your Trip Leader. Then, it's time to eat. Enjoy some delicious dishes that are sure to hit the spot. Stay: Haka House Rotorua or similar (B)

To say Rotorua has it ‘going on' would be the understatement of the century. We're talking adrenalin-pumping activities and mind-boggling movie sets. Ready for some recommendations? For Lord Of The Ring fans, take a stroll through the iconic Hobbiton movie set and step into the world of Tolkein. Adrenalin junkie? Get your hit on a rapid ride down the mighty Kaituna River.

Then it's time to eat - tuck in, treat your tastebuds, and enjoy every last bite. Stay: Haka House Rotorua or similar (B)

Today, Kohutapu is a-calling. And we're about to delve in deep with some proper authentic culture. Think: Maori rock carvings, legendary stories, a haka demo, plus workshops on marae traditions and a hangi dinner.

With full bellies and plenty to think about, you'll wind down in cosy cabins for a well-earned rest. Stay: Kohutapu Lodge or similar (B)

Before we roll into our next sleep spot, there's a steamy visit to the geothermal wonderland, Wai-O-Tapu, on the cards. We'll check out the Lady Knox Geyser which has been known to shoot boiling hot water 20m into the air.

Then we'll make a stop at booming Huka Falls and play spot-the-extreme-kayaker as they tackle the immense 11-metre plunge down the canyon falls.

Finally, we'll take in the amazing views over Lake Taupō before putting our feet up at our accommodation near Tongariro National Park. What a day! Stay: The Park Hotel Ruapehu or similar (B)

Dramatic volcanic peaks dominating the horizon. Rugged terrain that looks like you landed on Mars. And intense turquoise lakes gathered in steep valleys.

The Tongariro Alpine Crossing is one of the best one-day hikes in the world – and it's easy to see why. You've got a full day to find your Samwise up Mt Ngauruhoe (aka Mt Doom), soak up all the incredible views and wish you'd broken in those new hiking boots. Stay: The Park Hotel Ruapehu or similar (B)

Today we're making our way to Wellington where our North Island adventure will soon end. Get your bearings around the capital during an orientation before we head to Mt Victoria for 360-degree views over the harbour.

This evening, we'll give this legendary trip the send-off it deserves with one final group dinner and craft beer tasting. Stay: Haka House Wellington or similar (B/D)

Local culture? Check. Stunning landscapes? Check. Time to leave? Maybe — but if you're keen for more, it doesn't have to end here. Hop on a flight to Christchurch and join our New Zealand South Island trip – the timings work out perfectly, we checked. You know you want to... (B)